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3DWire extrusion die.
Wire, even hard steel wire, is generally made by forcing solid metal through a hole, called a die, under such intense pressure that it is extruded like pasta. Can you imagine the incredible forces that must be acting on the holes? In some cases diamond or sapphire (nearly as hard) dies are used, but this one is made of a tungsten-cobalt alloy, probably because of its high strength even at very high temperatures. The source reports that this one was showing signs of failure and was therefor removed from service.
Source: eBay seller heruur
Contributor: eBay seller heruur
Acquired: 24 December, 2003
Price: Donated
Size: 2.5"
Purity: <90%
Tungsten